Divorce is a difficult process, no matter what state you’re in. Wisconsin, however, is unique in that couples going through the divorce process have access to one of the most comprehensive forms of alternative dispute resolution known as ‘collaborative divorce.’ This form of divorce is becoming increasingly popular and can offer numerous benefits over more traditional litigation-based divorces. If you are facing a divorce in Wisconsin and want to know more about collaborative divorce, read on for an overview of what you need to know.

Are you looking for support in your Wisconsin divorce? The experienced divorce attorneys of The Ohiku Law Office can help. We specialize in divorce law, mediation and arbitration, and child custody and placement issues and are here to help you navigate this difficult time. Click here to learn more about Ohiku Law and contact our Milwaukee divorce lawyers today.

What is Collaborative Divorce?

In a collaborative divorce in Wisconsin, both parties make use of outside attorneys who are trained to facilitate negotiations rather than engage in contentious court battles. These attorneys are then assisted by other professionals such as financial experts and specialists trained in dealing with issues related to children. The goal of involving these professionals is to help the two sides settle disputes out of court so that neither party has to go through a lengthy trial or face expensive legal costs associated with traditional divorces.

During the collaborative process, each side will disclose their finances voluntarily and agree upon how assets should be divided among them during their separation. They will also take steps towards working out parenting plans that are amenable to both parties and figure out spousal support or other types of maintenance payments if applicable.

Another advantage of collaborative divorce is that it allows the couple total control over when they would like their proceedings finalized, as opposed to being beholden to court dates dictated by judges or other outside bodies. Couples who opt for this type of arrangement also tend to have less animosity between them after the proceedings have ended due to both sides making compromises during negotiations instead of engaging in drawn-out courtroom battles against one another. Finally, couples involved with collaborative divorces may benefit from increased privacy due to not having all details aired out publicly as they may have with a traditional court-based hearing process.

Who Should Consider Collaborative Divorce?

A collaborative divorce is an attractive option for couples who are looking to avoid the long and expensive court proceedings associated with a traditional litigated divorce. It’s a process in which couples work together, with the help of experienced attorneys, to come to an agreement that works for both parties without having to resort to lengthy court battles. It is ideal for couples who want full control over the process from start to finish and are willing to compromise on certain issues in order to reach an equitable settlement agreement. Furthermore, it can be especially beneficial for those seeking a more confidential approach as all negotiations take place outside of court. If you feel like collaborative divorce may be right for you and your partner, reaching out to an experienced lawyer well-versed in this type of alternative dispute resolution can help you determine if this path is right for you.

With experienced lawyers trained specifically for this type of arrangement along with various professionals such as financial advisors available for consultation, couples going through a collaborative divorce can rest assured that their interests will be well represented throughout negotiations leading up to the final settlement agreement between them

Ohiku Law: Your Collaborative Divorce Resource

Ohiku Law, based in Milwaukee, is a premier firm specializing in all aspects of family law. Led by experienced attorneys who are dedicated to providing each client with the highest level of support and guidance during the divorce process, Ohiku Law provides comprehensive services for those facing divorce in Wisconsin. From filing the original paperwork to finalizing any agreements related to finances and child custody issues, our team of experienced professionals has the skills and expertise needed to address any issue related to divorce. We also offer innovative collaborative dispute resolution techniques which can help couples come to a fair settlement without having to resort to litigation or lengthy court proceedings. Whether you’re looking for assistance with a traditional court-based divorce or assistance utilizing alternative dispute resolution options such as collaborative divorce, Ohiku Law has you covered. Click here to learn more about contact us today.

Yes, Wisconsin is indeed a no fault divorce state. You do not need to allege misconduct on your spouse’s part to be eligible for a divorce. Instead, both spouses must state that the marriage is “irretrievably” or “irrevocably” broken and the divorce will be granted. However, as with many things having to do with the law, it’s not quite as simple as it seems. In fact, there are other legal grounds for divorce in Wisconsin, which we will discuss in this blog post. There are also consequences, benefits, and drawbacks to a no fault divorce, and it’s important to balance your goals and expectations by understanding what can and cannot happen in this type of divorce.

If you are considering getting a divorce, it’s important to have an experienced divorce lawyer on your side who can guide you through the process, help you understand your options, and help protect your best interests. Attorneys Odalo Ohiku and Felicia Owen of The Ohiku Law Office are two of the best local resources for those seeking a divorce lawyer in Milwaukee or nearby communities. Click here to contact us today and talk through your unique situation.

Grounds for Wisconsin Divorce

Though Wisconsin is a no fault divorce state, there are actually several ways a divorce can be granted in this state. These are called “legal grounds for divorce” and are as follows:

• Both individuals in the couple admit the marriage is irrevocably broken.
• The couple lived separately and apart for 12 months directly before filing for divorce.
• Alternatively, a judge may also decree the marriage to be irretrievably broken. This means that no one is at fault for the marriage ending and can be granted without further evidence.

Benefits and Drawbacks to No Fault Divorce

No fault divorce has its advantages and disadvantages compared to a divorce where it’s required to prove fault on behalf of one spouse. A major advantage of no fault divorce is that it’s generally faster and less expensive than a fault divorce as there is no need to prove adultery or other misconduct in court. On the other hand, if you’re hoping to win certain rights or assets from your spouse based on their conduct during the marriage, you will find it much harder to accomplish in a no-fault divorce.

The Importance of Hiring a Divorce Attorney

At the end of the day, it’s important to understand your rights and how the law applies to you before beginning any divorce proceedings. That’s why having an experienced divorce lawyer on your side is essential when going through a divorce in Wisconsin. Here’s what you can expect when you choose to work with a lawyer for your divorce:

• A divorce lawyer will help you understand the process and advise you on your rights.
• They will work with you to negotiate a fair settlement that meets all of your needs.
• They can represent you in court if necessary and ensure that your interests are protected throughout the entire process.
• They can help you navigate the other aspects of divorce, including child custody and placement, asset division, alimony/spousal maintenance, and more.
• They can help you discover your options for alternative dispute resolution, such as mediation or arbitration.

Ultimately, it’s important to understand the legal grounds for divorce in Wisconsin so that you can make informed decisions about your future. No matter what kind of situation you’re faced with, navigating the complexities of family law can be a daunting task. With Attorneys Ohiku and Patterson by your side, however, you can rest assured that experienced professionals are advocating for your rights and helping you make informed decisions.

If you’re seeking a Milwaukee divorce lawyer, contact The Ohiku Law Office today. They will be able to provide you with the legal guidance necessary to ensure that your divorce is handled properly and efficiently. They can also help you navigate child custody and placement issues, and explore mediation. Click here to contact The Ohiku Law Office today.

If you’re considering divorce and are lucky enough to have an amicable relationship with your soon-to-be-ex spouse, you may be thinking you don’t need to hire a divorce attorney. We get it — lawyer fees can be intimidating, and if you and your spouse agree on all the major points of your divorce, the process should be straightforward, right? Well, right and wrong.

In this blog post, we will talk about why you should still consider hiring a divorce lawyer even when your divorce is uncontested. If you’re in the southeastern Wisconsin area and are looking for an experienced Milwaukee divorce attorney, contact Ohiku Law today. We are here to answer your questions and offer you the support you need to get through this process.

What is an uncontested divorce?

An uncontested divorce is a process of getting a divorce without going to court. The term “uncontested” means that both spouses agree on all major issues, including child custody, child support, division of property, and alimony. If both spouses can reach an agreement, they can file for an uncontested divorce. In most states, an uncontested divorce can be finalized in just a few months. However, if the spouses cannot reach an agreement, they will have to go to court and have a judge make the decisions for them. Uncontested divorces are typically cheaper and less stressful than contested divorces, and they often have a lower impact on children.

An uncontested divorce can still be complex, and there are many things that can go wrong if you’re not represented by an attorney.

While an uncontested divorce may sound simple, there are actually many things that can go wrong if you’re not represented by an attorney. For one thing, if you and your spouse cannot agree on all the terms of the divorce, it will likely become contested, which can be much more complex and time-consuming. Additionally, even if you are able to reach an agreement, there are still a number of legal requirements that must be met in order for the divorce to be finalized. If even one of these requirements is not met, it could delay the divorce or result in additional fees. Therefore, it’s important to have an experienced attorney by your side to ensure that everything goes smoothly.

You may be able to file for an uncontested divorce, but that doesn’t mean you don’t need a lawyer.

While it is possible to file for an uncontested divorce without hiring a lawyer, it is not advisable. Divorce can be a complex legal process, and there are many potential pitfalls. A divorce lawyer can help you navigate the process and protect your interests. An experienced divorce attorney will know the ins and outs of the law and will be able to provide guidance and advice on a variety of issues, from child custody to property division. In addition, a divorce lawyer can represent you in court, if necessary. Even if you are confident that you can handle the divorce yourself, it is always best to seek the advice of a qualified divorce attorney.

A lawyer can help make sure the process goes smoothly and protect your interests in case of any disputes.

It is no secret that the legal system can be complex and confusing. If you are facing a legal issue, it is important to have a skilled lawyer on your side. A lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and ensure that the process goes smoothly. In addition, a lawyer can protect your interests in case of any disputes. By working with a lawyer, you can increase your chances of success and resolve your legal issue in a timely and efficient manner.

If you’re considering a divorce, it’s important to speak with an experienced divorce lawyer to learn about your options and get advice on what’s best for you and your family. Uncontested divorces may seem straightforward, but there are many complex aspects that can trip you up if you’re not represented by an attorney. A lawyer can help make sure the process goes smoothly and protect your interests in case of any disputes. When it comes to such a significant decision as ending your marriage, you owe it to yourself and your family to get all the information and professional help available.

When a couple decides to end their marriage, they have two options: annulment or divorce. An annulment is a legal process that declares a marriage null and void. This means that, from a legal perspective, the marriage never actually happened. There are specific grounds for an annulment, and it must be granted by a court. A divorce, on the other hand, is a legal process that dissolves a valid marriage.

It is important to understand the differences between these two processes before making a decision about which one to pursue. If you’re looking to have your marriage annulled, there are very specific factors that you must consider. No matter which path you choose, having a knowledgeable and experienced divorce attorney on your side will be extremely helpful. For services in the southeastern Wisconsin region, please contact Milwaukee Divorce Attorney Odalo Ohiku of The Ohiku Law Office for more information.

What is Annulment? 

An annulment is a legal process that not only ends a marriage, but renders it void in the eyes of the law. This means that, legally, the marriage never happened. There are very specific circumstances under which a court will grant an annulment, and many people who try to get their marriage annulled fail. To get an annulment, you must be able to prove that there were one or more of the following situations present at the time of the marriage:

• One or both spouses were under the legal age of consent at the time of the marriage. The legal age of consent in Wisconsin is 18, but a person can get married at 16 or 17 with parental permission, or under age 16 with the permission of a parent and a court of law. If it can be proved that a person was married while underage and without the proper permissions, their marriage can be annulled. One caveat is that the person must still be under the age of 18 when the annulment petition is filed for the marriage to qualify for annulment.
• One or both spouses were unable to consent to the marriage due to intoxication. This could mean that one or both spouses were under the influence of alcohol or drugs when getting married, or were coerced into the marriage through use of these substances.
• One or both spouses were forced or coerced into the marriage. In the eyes of the law, both spouses must consent to the marriage for a marriage to be valid. So, if one or both spouses were forced to marry, the marriage would be considered invalid and can be annulled.
• The marriage was never consummated through sexual intercourse. This one is pretty self explanatory. If it can be proved that the marriage was never consummated through sexual intercourse, there may be grounds for an annulment.
• The marriage is bigamous (one or both spouses were already married to someone else at the time of the marriage). Bigamy is illegal; a person who is already married cannot legally marry someone else. So, if one or both spouses were already married, the marriage can be annulled.

A successful case for annulment will likely include the need for evidence and witnesses that one or more of the above grounds is present. The petition for annulment must be filed within one year of the spouse/spouses becoming aware of one or more of the above situations.

What Makes Annulment Different from Divorce? 

The biggest difference between annulment and divorce is that an annulment means the marriage never happened, while a divorce means the marriage was legally legitimate but is now ended. In both situations, the spouses are free to move forward and marry other people but, after divorce, Wisconsin law dictates that the spouses must wait six months after divorce to remarry. If the marriage is annulled, there is no such waiting period.

What are the Implications for Child Support, Alimony, and Property Division?

When it comes to child custody and child support, Wisconsin courts follow the same procedures with an annulment as they would for a divorce. Annulment of a marriage that brought forth children does not absolve you of your responsibility to care for and provide for those children. So, you will still be on the hook for child support and/or go through the appropriate proceedings to determine child custody and physical placement arrangements.

In most cases, Wisconsin courts also treat issues of alimony and property division like they do in a divorce. Getting an annulment is not a way to avoid having to pay alimony or divide your property evenly, but there are additional considerations. It’s always best to consult with a divorce attorney like those at The Ohiku Law Office whether you’re considering annulment or divorce.

Learn more about the services of The Ohiku Law office by clicking here and contact us today with questions or to schedule a consultation.

Deciding to divorce is never easy. It can be one of the most difficult and stressful decisions a person will ever make. There are so many things to consider – from child custody and placement, to dividing assets, to deciding who will represent you in court. If you’re just starting the process, it’s important to ask yourself some key questions that will help guide you through this difficult time.

At The Ohiku Law Office, Milwaukee Divorce Attorneys Odalo Ohiku and Felicia Owen help high net worth clients navigate all points in their divorce journeys. If you’re looking for a divorce attorney with compassion, experience, and customer focus, we are the firm for you. In this blog post, we’ll discuss seven questions that you should ask yourself as you begin the divorce process. We hope this information will help make the experience a little less daunting for you. For questions or to get started with a Milwaukee divorce attorney, contact Ohiku Law today.

Question #1: Do my spouse and I agree on the important things?

This is one of the most important questions to ask yourself before beginning the divorce process. You and your spouse will need to come to an agreement on a number of crucially important elements during the divorce process, including child custody, asset division, spousal support, and more. If you agree on these issues upfront, you may decide to try a form of alternative dispute resolution, such as mediation or arbitration, rather than going through divorce court. If, however, you do not agree on these or other important issues or have a contentious relationship, the traditional process of going to court to settle a divorce is probably the right fit for you.

Question #2: How do I want to communicate with my spouse during this process?

Another important question to consider is how you want to communicate with your spouse during the divorce process. If you have a good relationship and can communicate effectively, you may be able to work together to come to an agreement on key issues before bringing in a divorce lawyer. However, if communication is difficult or strained, or if you’re unsure what topics you should be talking about, meeting with and communicating through a divorce lawyer is a great idea.

Question #3: What are my goals for child custody and placement?

If you have children, one of the most important questions to ask yourself is what your goals are for child custody and placement. You’ll need to decide how much time each parent will spend with the child, whether there will be a shared or joint custody arrangement, and more. There are many factors to consider when making these decisions, so it’s important to sit down and really think about what’s best for your child before beginning the process.

Question #4: What assets are most important to me?

When going through a divorce, you and your spouse will need to divide up your assets. This can be a complex process despite the fact that Wisconsin is a marital property state, meaning most marital assets and debts are split evenly. It’s important to decide what assets are most important to you before beginning the process, as this will help you determine what you’re willing to fight for in court. An experienced divorce attorney can help you decide.

Question #5: Do I need to make any major purchases or sales?

If you’re planning on making any major purchases or sales during the divorce process, it’s important to consult with a lawyer first. In some cases, these types of transactions may not be allowed or may need to be approved by the court. It may be wise to make these purchases or sales before filing your initial petition for divorce.

Question #6: Do I want or need to change my name?

If you want to change your name as part of the divorce process, you’ll need to include this in your initial petition. You can usually only change your name back to your maiden name or another previous name, but in some cases, you may be able to choose a completely new name.

Question #7: Who should I choose to represent me?

One of the most important questions to ask yourself when beginning the divorce process is who you want to represent you. A divorce attorney with experience representing clients with your unique goals and circumstances will be the best fit, but it’s important to shop around. There are many factors to consider when making this decision. If you’re in the greater Milwaukee area, a great place to start is with The Ohiku Law Office. Attorneys Odalo Ohiku and Felicia Owen are here to answer your questions and see if we would be a great fit for your needs.

Contact Ohiku Law today.